Proving stability to your customers through uncertain circumstances

According to an adage, those two things are all that is certain in life. For owners of California contracting firms, being an entrepreneur brings many uncertainties. However, business insurance policies do not have to be one of them. Worrying about whether your organization can overcome a natural disaster should not be a top priority.

As the recent government shutdown proves, unexpected events can have far-reaching effects.

For example, the National Association of Government Contractors released a survey this week that showed 29 percent of contractors say a shutdown would cause them to delay planned hiring, and 58 percent said it would have a negative effect on their businesses.

Abdul Baytops is the CEO of a company that provides information technology, health care and training services to various government agencies.

"We're concerned about employees losing faith [in the company] even though we have no control over it," Abdul told USA Today.

Associated General Contractors spokesman Brian Turmail explained that projects on areas like courthouses, dredged rivers or U.S. parks could be delayed because government supervisors aren't on job sites to answer critical questions or approve changes.

Fernando Galaviz, chairman of the National Federal Contractors Association, told the news source that as many as 250,000 to 300,000 contract workers could be affected if the shutdown lasts a week or longer.

Having the right California contractor insurance will not prevent situations like the current government shutdown from happening, but it is important for business owners for long-term success. Having up-to-date and comprehensive policies will reassure clients while also keeping your contracting firm protected from numerous possibilities.